Patients with large, retracted rotator cuff tears present a surgical challenge to relieve pain and restore shoulder function. The optimal treatment has yet to be established. Current studies outline a variety of techniques to address such tears, including debridement with acromioplasty, biceps tenotomy, tenotomy with tuberoplasty, partial repair, complete arthroscopic repair, mini-open repair, tissue augmentation, tendon transfer, deltoid flap, hemiarthroplasty, and reverse shoulder arthroplasty. The definition of massive rotator cuff tear has been inconsistent. The more important distinction, rather than tear size or number of tendons involved, is the healing potential of the tendon and the ability to technically achieve a satisfactory repair. This paper outlines the history, indications, outcomes, and pitfalls associated with the use of reverse shoulder arthroplasty to manage irreparable tears without arthritis.
Copyright remains with the authors and publisher.
Patients with large, retracted rotator cuff tears present a surgical challenge to relieve pain and restore shoulder function. The optimal treatment has yet to be established. Current studies outline a variety of techniques to address such tears, including debridement with acromioplasty, biceps tenotomy, tenotomy with tuberoplasty, partial repair, complete arthroscopic repair, mini-open repair, tissue augmentation, tendon transfer, deltoid flap, hemiarthroplasty, and reverse shoulder arthroplasty. The definition of massive rotator cuff tear has been inconsistent. The more important distinction, rather than tear size or number of tendons involved, is the healing potential of the tendon and the ability to technically achieve a satisfactory repair. This paper outlines the history, indications, outcomes, and pitfalls associated with the use of reverse shoulder arthroplasty to manage irreparable tears without arthritis.
Copyright remains with the authors and publisher.